Why I Treat Parenting Like a Bucket List

We all know that kids can be quite the tricksters, trying their hardest to break free and live life on their own terms. If left to their own devices, they’d have us as their personal assistants, catering to their every whim. They may think they know everything, but as their mom, I firmly believe I have the upper hand. That’s why I’ve developed a distinct five-part bucket list for parenting—focused on equipping my children to thrive, not just survive.

Here’s a look at my ultimate parenting bucket list:

Make Them Do What I Had to Do
That’s right. Before I could ride my bike around the neighborhood, I had to bag ten bags of leaves; my kids will be doing the same. Just like my parents took me on vacations to remote areas of Wisconsin, my children will experience similar trips devoid of modern distractions. They’ll learn to adapt and make do with what they have.
Encourage Hands-On Skills
One day, while fixing my 4-year-old’s bike, my husband handed me a wrench instead of pliers. That was the moment I realized my kids needed some serious help when it came to practical skills. So now, with my guidance but not my direct help, they’re tackling projects like building Boy Scout derby cars and putting together furniture from Ikea, often with a bit of reluctance.
Prevent the Couch Potato Syndrome
Whether it’s with a stick or a fireplace poker, I make sure my kids get off the couch regularly. While a little downtime is healthy, lounging around all day drains their energy. I don’t care what they do, as long as they stay active.
Avoid Being Their Activity Scheduler
I’ve never been a fan of cramming my kids’ schedules full of activities. Over-planning can backfire, especially when unexpected events occur, like a rainy day ruining outdoor plans. Instead, I let them figure out how to entertain themselves, which often leads to a thousand creative options.
Encourage New Experiences
When my oldest was little, he wouldn’t even jump off a curb. We practiced until he could leap over sticks and cracks. I believe that trying new things, whether it’s tasting escargot or learning to fish, is crucial for their growth. Each new experience is a chance to expand their horizons and avoid stagnation.

Unlike typical bucket lists that consist of one-off items like “see a Broadway show,” I see mine as an ongoing adventure. I’m not organized enough to check off boxes on a spreadsheet, but my broader goal is to shape my sons into self-sufficient and adventurous individuals. If they approach life with that spirit, I’ll consider my job as a mom well done.

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In summary, my approach to parenting is about creating a rich and diverse set of experiences for my children that encourage independence and resilience. I want them to grow into capable individuals who embrace life’s challenges with enthusiasm.

Keyphrase: Parenting as a Bucket List
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